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Students today are bombarded by all forms of visual media, and their ability to understand that information is increasingly critical. How do we teach students to read, analyze, and interpret the media they come in contact with every day? What does media literacy mean in a 21st-century education? Join internationally recognized media educator Frank Baker for engaging, hands-on activities that can easily be replicated back in the classroom. Participants use real-world examples to build skills in critically examining various forms of media with an emphasis on visual literacy.

Get insight on art from our knowledgeable group of interpretive guides. Docents will be stationed throughout the galleries to chat and answer questions about works on view. Look for their “Ask me about the art!” buttons to learn more.

Explore trees from roots to leaves. In books, in the galleries, and even outside, this session celebrates the many ways we can enjoy these wonderful plants. Key topic: nature. This program is specially designed for 4- to 5-year-old participants and their adult companions as a way to explore art through play and inquiry. Gladys’ Gang builds skills for kindergarten readiness through story time, gallery conversations, and a creative studio project related to the art exploration theme.

Fall back into Columbia's art scene with CMA affinity group The Contemporaries! Enjoy a family-friendly event with German music, cuisine, and beer. Ticket includes food plate, two drink tickets, and gallery admission including the newly opened exhibition 30 Americans.

Patina, paint, and polish form only the surface of an artwork. Underneath are hidden stories of the artist, their muses, the collectors, and the subjects of their work. In celebration of SC Pride and National Coming Out Day, join docent John Tomashek in the CMA collection to share an LGBTQ history of art that might otherwise go untold. This tour features adult themes; visitor discretion advised. Focal Points is a series of gallery talks featuring topics and themes near and dear to the hearts of tour guides and staff.